With the cost of living rising, any form of help is very beneficial to those struggling.
It can be even harder for those with a disability who may find it hard doing daily tasks or going to work which in turn, may end up affecting their salary and job prospects.
One form of payment that can help with this is PIP - also known as Personal Independence Payment - which is a benefit for people aged over 16 and under State Pension age who need help with daily living tasks or moving around as a result of a long-term illness, disability or mental health condition.
According to the Daily Record, if someone is already receiving PIP when they reach the State Pension age, this will carry on and if someone is already getting Disability Living Allowance (DLA), they will be invited to apply for it.
However, when someone reaches State Pension age who has never claimed either benefit before and they need support to remain independent for longer in their own home, they could be eligible for Attendance Allowance.
The latest statistics from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) show that in February 2021, there were 1,392,093 people across the UK claiming the benefit, worth up to £358.40 each month.
Of this figure, 124,192 were said to be Scots with 60% also said to be at least 80 years of age.
The report by the Daily Record also states that 54,428 people - 4,548 of which are Scots - are currently receiving "regular financial support" for muscle, joint or back pain across the UK — meaning if you are living with back, joint or muscle pain, you could be eligible for support from the DWP through Attendance Allowance.
But what is it and how do you claim it?
What is Attendance Allowance?
Attendance Allowance helps with extra costs if you have a physical or mental disability or illness severe enough that makes it hard for you to look after yourself - it does not cover mobility needs and you do not need to have someone caring for you in order to claim.
Who can make a claim for Attendance Allowance?
You should consider applying for Attendance Allowance if you have a disability or illness and need help or supervision throughout the day or at times during the night - even if you do not currently get help.
This might include:
Help with your personal care - for example getting dressed, eating or drinking, getting in and out of bed, bathing or showering and going to the toilet
Help to stay safe
You should also consider applying if you have difficulties with personal tasks, for example if they take you a long time, you experience pain or you need physical help, like a chair to lean on.
Attendance Allowance is not just for people with a physical disability or illness.
You should also consider claiming if you need help or supervision throughout the day or night and have:
A mental health condition
Learning difficulties
A sensory condition - if you are deaf or blind
How much money could I get on Attendance Allowance?
You could get either £60 or £89.60 a week, however this comes down to the level of care you need because of your condition.
It's paid every four weeks and works out at £240 and £358.40 a month respectively.
You can spend the money however you like and it could help you stay independent in your own home for longer.
This might include:
Paying for taxis
Helping towards bills
Paying for a cleaner or gardener
Can I claim even if I have savings and other income?
Thankfully you can, as Attendance Allowance isn't means-tested so it doesn't matter what other money you have coming in or how much you have in savings either - there's no limit.
It's tax-free and you'll be exempt from the Benefit Cap so you won't have money taken away from any other benefits.
Will Attendance Allowance affect my State Pension?
No, it won't affect your State Pension and you can even claim it if you're still working and earning money.
How does Attendance Allowance affect other benefits?
The other benefits you get might increase if you get Attendance Allowance, these include:
Extra Pension Credit
Housing Benefit Reduction
Council Tax Reduction
You can check your State Pension age on the GOV.UK website here.
How do I make a claim?
You will need to complete a long claim form when you apply for Attendance Allowance.
It might seem daunting at first but help is available from your nearest Citizens Advice, so don't let the form put you off applying.
If you'd prefer to do it yourself you can follow the Citizens Advice guide on how to fill in your claim form here.
Full details of how to get the application form by post or over the phone can be found on the Gov.uk website here.
What happens if I am about to reach State Pension age?
If you're thinking about applying for Attendance Allowance when you reach State Pension age, you might be better off claiming PIP straight away.
If you claim PIP and get it, the amount you get will depend on your circumstances and how your disability or illness affects you.
Find out more about claiming PIP on the GOV.UK website here.
Who cannot claim Attendance Allowance?
You won't be able to get Attendance Allowance if you already get PIP or DLA to pay for your care.
If you apply for Attendance Allowance while getting DLA, the DWP will usually reassess your DLA award instead.
You can renew your PIP or DLA when the existing award ends as long as you still meet the eligibility criteria.
If your renewal is unsuccessful you can apply for Attendance Allowance instead.
Full details about claiming Attendance Allowance can be found on the GOV.UK website here.
